Mourners wept, raised their arms and marched behind the flag-draped casket of former President José Mujica on Wednesday as thousands bid a poignant farewell to the iconic leader in the Uruguayan capital.

Mujica’s passing marks the end of an era in Uruguayan politics, but for many, his legacy of humility, compassion, and service to the marginalized will endure.

The Uruguayan government has declared three days of national mourning in honor of the late former President Jose "Pepe" Mujica.